In a notable stride for both gender representation and regional diversity within the Tennessee judiciary, Circuit Court Judge Kathryn (Katy) Olita has recently made history by being elected as the President of the Tennessee Trial Judges Association (TTJA). Not only does this mark her as the first woman to ascend to this prestigious role, but it also establishes her as the initial member from the 19th Judicial District to do so.
"It’s sort of an informal list of everyone whose been president. So, that’s kind of exciting," Judge Olita told the Tennessee Courts regarding her unique position in the association's history. The TTJA, an assembly committed to ensuring a nonpartisan, fair, and efficient judiciary system, has been operating since 1976, serving the legal framework that presides over more than 7.2 million residents in the state.
"We lookout for any issues or topics of interest that may affect the people we serve," Judge Olita remarked on the role of the association. One of the initiatives championed under the umbrella of the TTJA included the successful advocacy for equitable pay for judicial assistants, recognizing the indispensable work they perform throughout the state. Keeping an eagle eye on matters such as impending legislative redistricting is also on the association's agenda, delineating their proactive stance in the legal landscape of Tennessee.
The newly elected executive team under Judge Olita includes figures from diverse judicial districts, encompassing a broad geographic representation. First Judicial District Criminal Court Judge Stacy Street was appointed as vice president, with 12th Judicial District Chancellor Melissa Willis serving as secretary, and 29th Judicial District Chancellor Tony Childress as treasurer. "It's a really good lineup that basically covers our state from end to end," said Judge Olita. This executive committee will meet monthly or as needed, complementing the broader TTJA gatherings that occur at judicial conferences in March, June, and October.
